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Boy, I said something that would get me jailed in California.
Walking in Yokahama, Japan I paused for traffic alongside a group of young Japanese guys my own age. To my surprise they were conversing in ENGLISH.
I met eyes with on fellow and could not resist saying, “I am amazed at how well you people do with MY language. Very impressed.”
All of them stood tall, smiling and thanking me, as they were all studying ENGLISH in University. One whispered something to a friend who gave him a “go ahead” nod.
He said, “Thank you, but why do so many Americans speak such poor English? Some seem to have funny accents that make what they say impossible. Is there much of that in your country?”
I just KNEW they were referring to Southerners, many of whom was my delight to serve with.